Barbara K. Vitt Scholarship Fund
Mission
An anonymous donor established this county wide scholarship, in the amount of $50,000, which will award annually up to three $1,500 scholarships. Nemaha County students must have plans to enroll at a college, university, vo-tech, or certification. All graduating High School Seniors in Nemaha County are eligible to apply; however, preference will be given to those majoring in education, science, or mental health.Profile
2026 Barbara K. Vitt Scholarships Awarded
Barbara K. Vitt has been a devoted educator and counselor, serving Nemaha County with distinction for decades. Reflecting on her career, Vitt describes each of her teaching and counseling roles as a “little piece of paradise.” She credits the experience to the respectful, hard-working students, supportive parents, and the dedicated colleagues, administrators, and school boards with whom she worked. Given the opportunity, she says she would happily do it all again.
In recognition of her exceptional service and lifelong commitment to education, a generous anonymous donor established the annual Barbara K. Vitt Scholarships. Each year, three Nemaha County students are awarded $1,500 scholarships in recognition of their achievements and potential.
The 2026 recipients of the Barbara K. Vitt Scholarship are:
- Chloe Detweiler, Sabetha High School
Daughter of Kurt and Melissa Detweiler
Plans to attend Kansas State University, majoring in Nursing - Alivia Lang, Sabetha High School
Daughter of Jason and Sidney Lang
Plans to attend Kansas State University, majoring in Kinesiology - Ellie Hermesch, Nemaha Central High School
Daughter of Tisha Hermesch
Plans to Iowa Western Community College, majoring in Dental Hygiene
These scholarships honor Vitt’s legacy by supporting students who reflect the values she championed throughout her career, dedication, compassion, and a commitment to learning.
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